Panthers Beef Up Offense in 2026 Draft

What if Carolina focused solely on offense in the upcoming draft?

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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In this hypothetical scenario, the Carolina Panthers decide to invest heavily in their offense during the 2026 NFL Draft, using all of their picks to bolster their skill positions and offensive line. The team trades back in the first round to acquire additional picks, then selects a wide receiver, interior offensive lineman, tackle, running back, and quarterback over the course of the draft.

Why it matters

The Panthers have traditionally focused on defense in the draft, but this approach would represent a dramatic shift in philosophy. Strengthening the offense could help the team take the next step and become a more complete, balanced squad capable of competing for a playoff spot.

The details

In this scenario, the Panthers trade their first-round pick to the Chicago Bears, acquiring picks 25 and 57 in exchange for 19 and 119. With the 25th overall selection, they take wide receiver KC Concepcion to add speed and playmaking ability to the passing game. In the second round, they select interior offensive lineman Emmanuel Pregnon, who could potentially learn to play center. The team then trades back again, sending picks 57 and 119 to the Jaguars for 81 and 88. With those selections, they add tackle Dametrious Crownover and running back Jadarian Price, a pass-catching threat out of the backfield. In the later rounds, the Panthers select another tackle in Caleb Tiernan and quarterback Sawyer Robertson to develop as a backup.

  • The Panthers made the trade with the Bears on draft day.
  • The team completed additional trades with the Jaguars and Packers during the draft.

The players

KC Concepcion

A wide receiver selected by the Panthers in the first round to provide speed and playmaking ability to the passing game.

Emmanuel Pregnon

An interior offensive lineman drafted by the Panthers in the second round who could potentially learn to play center.

Dametrious Crownover

A tackle selected by the Panthers in the third round to provide depth and competition on the offensive line.

Jadarian Price

A running back drafted by the Panthers in the fourth round who is known for his pass-catching ability out of the backfield.

Caleb Tiernan

Another tackle selected by the Panthers in the later rounds to continue bolstering the offensive line.

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What they’re saying

“This would presume that they spent big in free agency on the defensive side of the ball, signing an edge rusher, a linebacker, and a safety at minimum.”

— Zach Roberts, Author (yardbarker.com)

“A third straight year with a running back selection? Trevor Etienne is a glorified (and not a good one) return man, and Jonathon Brooks' knee is probably shot. Jadarian Price will bring a pass-catching threat out of the backfield, too, which makes it a wise investment.”

— Zach Roberts, Author (yardbarker.com)

What’s next

The Panthers will need to continue addressing their defensive needs in free agency and future drafts to ensure they have a balanced, competitive roster.

The takeaway

By focusing solely on offense in the 2026 draft, the Panthers could significantly improve their skill position talent and offensive line depth, potentially transforming their offense into a strength of the team. However, they would need to ensure their defense remains a priority in other roster-building efforts.